“I did not think of doing so, unless the circumstances required such a step.”
“Because we are having it all our own way on this side, and we are perfectly willing you should do anything you please now.”
“That’s handsome; that’s magnanimous, Tommy; and I thank you for your condescension,” I answered, as cheerfully as I could. “I am very pleasantly situated just now, and it affords me very great pleasure to know that anything in the way of fair competition will not be considered as interfering with your rights and privileges.”
“Do anything you like, Wolf. You will be beaten both ways, now, and I think you have come about to the end of your rope. After Colonel Wimpleton has spent so much money on that new steamer, we ought not grudge him the little business he can obtain in Centreport and Ruoara.”
“I am glad you feel so, Tommy, and that I have your kind permission to take any step I may think proper.”
“Do just what you think best now.”
“Thank you.”
“I don’t mean to say that my opinion of your conduct toward us is at all changed; but as I look at it, your treachery will be its own reward.”
“That’s rather cool, Tommy. After turning me off with every indignity and mark of contempt you could devise, you talk about my treachery!”
“We won’t jaw about that. I don’t love you now; but we won’t quarrel, if you will only take yourself out of Centreport.”